current affairs 2025

India’s Cybersecurity Landscape & Data Protection Framework (2025)

by Prince Luthra Sir (UPSC CSE AIR 577) · 26 February 2025

3️⃣2️⃣ India’s Cybersecurity Landscape & Data Protection Framework (2025) 🔐💻

🔹 Introduction

With the increasing digitalization of India’s economy, cybersecurity has become a critical national security concern. The rise in cyberattacks, ransomware threats, and data breaches has prompted the Indian government to introduce robust cybersecurity policies and data protection laws.

The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, along with the National Cybersecurity Policy 2025, is aimed at securing sensitive user data, strengthening digital infrastructure, and preventing cyber frauds. With AI-driven cyber threats and deepfake manipulations on the rise, India is also focusing on developing advanced AI-powered cybersecurity solutions.

🔹 Key Developments in India’s Cybersecurity Framework (2025)

✅ Implementation of Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act 📜

Mandates how personal data is collected, stored, and processed by companies.
Imposes strict penalties on companies for data breaches & unauthorized usage.
Gives citizens the right to access, modify, or delete their digital data.

✅ National Cybersecurity Policy 2025 – Strengthening Digital Security 🛡️

Cyber Coordination Centre (CyCord) established to monitor cyber threats.
AI-based cyber defense deployed to detect and prevent hacking attempts.
Government working with private companies to develop quantum-safe encryption technologies.

✅ Regulation of Big Tech & Data Localization Laws 🌏

Global tech firms required to store Indian user data within the country.
Strict regulations for social media platforms to prevent misinformation & deepfake scams.
Government implementing AI-based fact-checking tools for online platforms.

✅ Cybersecurity in Banking & Digital Payments 💳

AI-driven fraud detection systems introduced in Indian banks.
Two-factor authentication & biometric security measures strengthened.
RBI implementing blockchain-based transaction security for digital payments.

✅ Challenges in India’s Cybersecurity Strategy ⚠️

Increase in AI-driven cybercrimes & phishing attacks.
Shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals in India.
Difficulty in enforcing cybersecurity laws in rural & remote areas.

📌 Advanced MCQs on India’s Cybersecurity & Data Protection (2025)

1️⃣ What is the primary objective of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act?

A) Provide complete anonymity for internet users
B) Regulate data collection, processing, and ensure privacy rights
C) Ban all foreign tech companies in India
D) Allow unrestricted government access to private data

Tap here for Answer

Answer: B) Regulate data collection, processing, and ensure privacy rights

Explanation:

The DPDP Act mandates how companies handle user data, ensuring transparency and privacy rights.
It requires companies to store, process, and manage data responsibly, with penalties for breaches.

2️⃣ Which organization is responsible for monitoring cyber threats in India?

A) Indian Cybersecurity Task Force (ICTF)
B) Cyber Coordination Centre (CyCord)
C) National Digital Police (NDP)
D) Artificial Intelligence Crime Bureau (AICB)

Tap here for Answer

Answer: B) Cyber Coordination Centre (CyCord)

Explanation:

CyCord is responsible for real-time monitoring of cyber threats, securing digital infrastructure, and coordinating cybersecurity efforts.
It works alongside CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) and National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC).

3️⃣ Why has India introduced strict data localization laws for foreign tech companies?

A) To ensure national security and prevent unauthorized access to user data
B) To restrict the use of cloud computing in India
C) To allow only government agencies to control user data
D) To increase tax revenue from global tech firms

Tap here for Answer

Answer: A) To ensure national security and prevent unauthorized access to user data

Explanation:

Data localization laws require global tech firms to store Indian user data within the country to prevent unauthorized foreign access.
This enhances national security and protects sensitive personal information from global cyber threats.

4️⃣ What emerging technology is being developed to combat AI-driven cyber threats?

A) Blockchain-based identity verification
B) Quantum-safe encryption
C) Manual cyber defense frameworks
D) Traditional firewall-based security systems

Tap here for Answer

Answer: B) Quantum-safe encryption

Explanation:

Quantum-safe encryption ensures security against AI-driven hacking and quantum computing-based attacks.
It is being developed as part of India’s cybersecurity strategy for advanced digital protection.

5️⃣ What major challenge does India face in its cybersecurity strategy?

A) Lack of internet access across the country
B) Shortage of cybersecurity professionals
C) Declining cyber threats globally
D) Lack of interest in digital payments security

Tap here for Answer

Answer: B) Shortage of cybersecurity professionals

Explanation:

India requires more skilled cybersecurity professionals to combat rising digital threats, AI-based phishing scams, and data breaches.
The government is investing in cybersecurity training programs & AI-based cyber threat detection systems.

🚀 Conclusion

India’s cybersecurity landscape is evolving, with stronger data protection laws, AI-driven cyber defense systems, and secure digital infrastructure. However, cybercrime risks, lack of trained professionals, and enforcement challenges in rural areas remain concerns. Building an advanced, AI-powered cybersecurity framework is essential for India’s digital future.